LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
"Fingers crossed": Cowboys hopeful of three Round 1 returns
The North Queensland Cowboys are still holding out hope that the trio of Jason Taumalolo, Zac Laybutt, and Jake Clifford will be fit and firing for Round 1 of the upcoming season.
Laybutt, who has endured the longest road to recovery after an ACL injury in early 2024, is determined to make a triumphant comeback to the squad.
A key player for coach Todd Payten's team, Laybutt was making waves in the center position before his injury, and many experts believe he will reclaim his spot in the lineup for the 2025 season.
With Tom Chester ruled out for the entire campaign due to a pre-season ACL injury, the pressure is on Laybutt to make a strong return.
Meanwhile, Taumalolo and Clifford have also faced their own battles during the off-season but are expected to be back in action for the season opener.
The Cowboys are banking on their return to boost the team's performance and kick off the season on a high note.
As they say in Rugby League, it's all about playing through the pain and coming back stronger.
So let's hope these players can rise to the challenge and help lead the Cowboys to victory in Round 1.